What is assistive technology? As defined by the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, the term refers to "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."

Assistive technology can be anything as simple as a pencil grip, to more complicated equipment like voice recognition software.

Though assistive technology is usually thought of in terms of special needs students, all students can benefit from little modifications or accommodations.

If you believe that your student would benefit from some type of assistive technology, talk to the classroom teacher, to the special services teachers, or to the school counselor.

For more information about assistive technologies, check out these Web sites: GPAT, Onion Mountain Tech, Ability Hub.

These lists should give you some good ideas of how you can assist students in your classroom. These lists start off with low tech suggestions and progress to high tech suggestions. This information is provided by the Council for Exceptional Children.